Day 5 – Visiting Schools in Kibera

 Today we had the privilege of visiting three schools in Kibera.

Our first stop was Spurgeons Intermediate School. We shared in worship, gave testimonies, and passed out gifts to the students. They were so quiet, respectful, and attentive—it was such a blessing to see their eagerness to listen. To our surprise, this group sang Happy Birthday to Mike! He was completely shocked and loved every moment of it. Before leaving, some of us slipped over to greet the elementary students, where we were met with countless hugs and even managed to take a sweet group photo with them.

On the drive to our second stop, we took in the sights of the neighborhood. Small shops lined the streets, each space rented by someone working hard to run their own business. It was eye-opening to see a way of life so different from ours back home.

Our next visit was to Global One High School. To reach it, we wound our way through narrow alley-like streets. The school didn’t have a space large enough for us inside, so we gathered outdoors. The students were incredibly respectful, singing with us and eagerly answering questions.

The last school, New Horizons High School, welcomed us during recess. The students were playing a game similar to dodgeball, but instead of a ball, they used a plastic bag filled with paper or scraps. We met on the third floor, which gave us a sweeping view of Kibera. Here we handed out Smarties to every student. The boys each received a toothbrush and toothpaste, while the girls were given sanitary pads and soap.

Each school had its own uniform, and we learned that if students don’t have the proper school sweater, they aren’t allowed to attend. These private schools are run by organizations like churches, and tuition is required. Public schools exist, but not nearby—and the distance and requirements make it nearly impossible for these children to attend. For many families, if they can’t afford private school, their children don’t get an education at all.

Traveling through the city gave us a whole new appreciation for our driver, Sammy. The streets are incredibly narrow, without stoplights or signs, full of buses, cars, and motorcycles weaving through traffic—and countless people walking between them! At one point, the bumps were so big that we scraped the bottom of the bus.

Back at the center, we debriefed the day. Team members shared their impressions:

• “We couldn’t believe how quiet and attentive the kids were!”
• “I wish we had more to give them!”
• “It was so different from our schools.”
• “I wish we could have had more time with the students!”

After peanut butter and honey sandwiches, the center staff had a special surprise for Mike. They called him up and sang Happy Birthday in both English and Swahili, then brought out a cake. He and I each had to feed each other with our eyes closed—which was hilarious enough—but then they had him close his eyes again and smeared frosting all over his face! We all laughed until we cried. It’s their birthday tradition and it made his day unforgettable. 🎉

In the evening, we prepared supplies for camp, finished building the robots, and continued setting up the iPads. Abby, Sophie, and Kenzie cooked dinner—spaghetti with garlic bread. The kitchen was full of laughter as the girls cooked. In the middle of it all, a new oven arrived! The old one’s door had broken, and the new stove wasn’t fully hooked up yet since the gas line still needed a clamp. Thankfully, the oven worked, and the meal turned out delicious.

We ended the day tired but full of joy after such an incredible experience.

Today’s visits reminded us of the hunger for knowledge these students carry and the joy they show in even the smallest of gifts. Their attentiveness and gratitude humbled us, showing us how much we often take for granted.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” — Proverbs 1:7